Make we all kushe ya. Kushe for what you may ask. Well kushe for the deplorable state of our country; something we have deliberately turned a blind eye to for decades.

Take a step back into history for a moment.

The area presently called Sierra Leone has been inhabited for over 2500 years. This means that long after we are gone there will still be a Sierra Leone. The state the future Sierra Leone will be in depends on our present day actions. Post-Independence (1961), we had a few years as a functioning democracy which ended with the election in 1967. The Siaka Stevens led party won that election and remained in control for eighteen years. Obviously unconstitutional, but we (Sierra Leoneans) allowed it to happen. From 1978, Sierra Leone became a one-party state with Siaka Stevens as executive President and the country slowly descended into a crippling trend of high-level corruption. In 1985, Stevens retired and nominated the head of the army, Joseph Momoh as his successor. Corruption and economic decay continued, until a military coup toppled Momoh in 1992. The result is a military council led by a 29-year-old captain, Valentine Strasser who was in turn toppled in yet another coup led by Brigadier Maada Bio in 1996. We all know the events that unfolded between 1997 and 2001. Fifty thousand people died during the senseless war, many left homeless and orphaned, many left as amputees.

The post war elections in 2002 were won by the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP), led by Dr Ahmad Tejan Kabbah. This was hailed as the beginning of a new Sierra Leone; a Sierra Leone united by pain, by suffering, by lives lost. Sadly, that was not to be. Rampant corruption continued unchecked and large chunks of post war aid were misappropriated by the government. Between 1970 and 2007, annual aid disbursed to Sierra Leone stands at an average of 14.2% of GDP (this may have surged after the civil conflict that took place between 1991 and 2002), a figure much higher than the regional average of 3.7% for Africa as a whole. Despite this level of support, Sierra Leone’s economic performance has remained wanting in terms of both growth and poverty reduction (http://recom.wider.unu.edu/article/aid-and-economic-growth-case-sierra-leone). Between 2001 and 2006 the country was the largest per capita recipient of foreign aid in the world, and continues to benefit from relatively generous assistance channeled through a small number of major donor agencies (http://www.oecd.org/dacfragilestates/44653693.pdf). In layman’s terms, Sierra Leone received the largest amount of foreign aid for any post war country between 2001 and 2006. Did this aid trickle down to the common man? Is the life of the average Sierra Leonean better off as a result of these generous donations by the international community? Evidently, not and even though this high level of corruption and misappropriation of public funds has continued to present day, Sierra Leoneans have turned a blind eye to it. We cry out for things to be better yet we allow our politicians to trample on us and treat us with gross contempt. It is said, that those who do not stand up for something for which they are passionate about, out of ignorance, apathy or a lack of compassion, are easiest and most obvious prey to be led in any direction by those who have an agenda; whatever that agenda might be. They can only be sheep following the herd if they have no path of their own to graze.

Our individualistic attitude has caused us to plunge into an abyss of low morals were corruption and dysfunction is our reality and the norm of everyday life. They have become so ingrained in our society that it has reached a point where it is literally killing us. We all kushe ya.

Sierra Leone has not always been in the shambolic state she finds herself. I can proudly say Sierra Leone was a shining example in Africa. The University of Sierra Leone, Fourah Bay College, first founded in 1827 is the oldest university in West Africa. I remember coming across a post-independence tourism brochure (1970s) that put the value of the Leone (Le) above the dollar ($) and Sierra Leoneans were considered the most friendly, helpful and accommodating people to ourselves and to our neighbours. When Liberia descended into chaos during their civil war, we warmly welcomed many of their refugees into our country and our homes. So, my people where did it all go wrong? The strength of a nation is derived from the integrity of its homes. Does it then follow that the present state of Sierra Leone is a reflection of the lack of integrity and morals in the everyday lives of Sierra Leoneans? Do we still look out for each other, do we still value education like we used to? Do we love Sierra Leone like the national pledge asks us to (I pledge my love and loyalty to my country Sierra Leone)?

The maelstrom Sierra Leone finds herself is no accident. It is due to Sierra Leoneans (politicians and civilians alike). Our selfishness and greed has taken its toll on mama Salone, yet we are quick to point fingers at everyone but ourselves. We have allowed our leaders to misappropriate funds, allowed them to build and live in mansions amongst us, while we live in abject poverty. We have allowed them to create an elitist group of individuals who benefit from the wealth of Sierra Leone and all we do is sit back, say nothing and suffer in silence. Those who venture to speak out are quickly shot down and silenced by those who would rather keep the status quo for they benefit from it personally. Are we afraid to fix our nation and leave behind a Sierra Leone better than the one we grew up in? Why can’t we all speak with one voice, say enough is enough and demand back what is rightfully ours?

The government is appointed by the people to serve the people. We are the boss; they are working for us. Change can only come about when there is a collective outcry from the people of Sierra Leone. A mental shift in every Sierra Leonean is desperately needed. Sierra Leoneans old and young, regardless of tribe, religion, political affiliation or social status should put Sierra Leone first. Let us start directing our anger towards the right people, the leaders. I see a lot of misplaced anger, especially on social media. Social media has given us a platform to make our voices heard, but it saddens me to see people using it to defend the government instead of demanding more from government. Why do we settle for mediocrity? Why are we so thankful for the scraps that are thrown at us? It is time our leaders realise that the wealth of Sierra Leone should be shared amongst all Sierra Leoneans. We must become a society of upright men and women our young people can look up to. Who are the role models in our society at the moment? Who do our young people look up to? A corrupt politician, a crooked civil servant, a mother selling diluted kerosene so as to make more profit? Do we realise that unless the vicious cycle that we are caught up in is broken, Sierra Leone will continue to deteriorate?

This is not a call to arms but a herald for affirmative action; peaceful marches, demonstrations and gatherings; sharing of views and ideas to help propel the country back onto the right track. More importantly, it is a call for honest discussions. It is time to stop denying what is so glaringly obvious.

If anything good has come out of this Ebola episode, it is that it has highlighted the inadequacies in all sections of our society. A more than inadequate health provision, a more that inadequate leadership (our government ministries and departments are ineffective) but most of all a more than inadequate collective mentality. Yes o, mi pipul dem we wais comot na doe. We have been putting lipstick on a pig for way too long; bandaging an injury that requires deep surgery. Where are our voices? The country is plunged into darkness and instead of taking to the streets to demand electricity; those who can afford it buy generators. Our schools deteriorate and instead of demanding higher standards; those who can afford it send their kids to private schools or out of the country. I ask again, where are our voices, and where have they been for the last 50+ years of so called independence? The better off, more enlightened and educated people in Sierra Leone need to look at themselves and ask whether they are content that they did all they could to change the status quo or rather did their silence assist to further propel our country into her current state?

One hundred Sierra Leoneans die every month since the first outbreak in Sierra Leone. Had we built a society that valued responsibility and accountability, our leaders would have been more proactive and much of the mess we find ourselves in now would have been averted. We have blood on our hands. In 2014, it is no longer acceptable that we settle for campaign promises of electricity and clean water. These are necessities not luxuries. Without these basics, our country is going nowhere. Good health care, quality education for all, food for every family, electricity, water and good infrastructure are the basics that set the foundation for any developing nation to have a chance at thriving.

We need to look after and out for each other more. Our children should not be exposing themselves to sexual assault by paedophiles because they need to be out selling wares to make a living for their families. Every Sierra Leonean child deserves a happy childhood and it is our duty as fellow countrymen and women to make that happen. It is now time for a shift in our mentality, without which our country will continue this downward spiral. Do we ever wonder why despite the numerous churches and mosques in our nation, it appears God has forsaken us? I suppose it is his way of showing us that we need to work at our situation. God is not going to come down and change things. Our over dependence on miracles and divine interventions is just an excuse for our laziness and laid back attitude. We need to get up and act and then God will bless our actions.

We need our fathers, mothers and teachers to drive us forward in our quest for a corruption free and progressive society. Let us lay the foundation for change so that future generations can enjoy Sierra Leone in ways we never did. Our children deserve more. Let us unlock our potential and together we can raise Sierra Leone to heights we never imagined. To understand a man, you must know his memories. The same is true of a nation. Not until we dare to regard ourselves as a nation; not until we respect ourselves will we gain the esteem of others. Rather, only then will it come of its own accord. Let us buck this trend of accepting mediocrity and take back what is ours.

By The TNFC Committee

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/09/23/dear-sierra-leoneans-by-the-tnfc-committee/feed/02012-08-09 01.20.18thenetworkforchangeOpen Letter to H.E. Dr Ernest Bai Koromahttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/08/16/open-letter-to-h-e-dr-ernest-bai-koroma/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/08/16/open-letter-to-h-e-dr-ernest-bai-koroma/#commentsSat, 16 Aug 2014 19:27:22 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=268“I am disappointed at the international community in their delay in responding towards the fight against the deadly Ebola virus in Sierra Leone,” the President said. “We have not been provided with enough equipment, resources, qualified health officers, and we have lost the only expert we had in the country to the disease amidst the declaration of the international health emergency on Ebola” (http://news.yahoo.com/sierra-leone-appeals-18m-plug-ebola-funding-gap-220451048.html)

Reply: Mr. President, we are disappointed in your government. We are disappointed in the response or non-thereof, of your government towards the fight against the deadly Ebola virus.

Let’s start from the very beginning Sir. You have been in power for about 7 years. Your election campaign contained several promises which included tackling corruption, upgrading education, providing electricity and clean water etc.

Regarding corruption: Despite being one of the government’s central policy initiatives, fighting Sierra Leone’s endemic problem with corruption appears, in practice, to have become an increasingly marginalized objective. Although the powers of the country’s Anti-Corruption Commission have been strengthened and some high-level prosecutions have raised its profile, it has failed to ensure convictions and has remained selective with its investigations; causing disappointment among the general public. As a result, corruption remains a serious concern and affects people’s trust in the state bureaucracy, as well as the functioning of the government. Reducing it by about 5% is not good enough Sir. It is an insult to every Sierra Leonean that in 2014, you still allow members of your government to blatantly engage in corrupt practices.

We are not fools and we clearly see how you and yours suck Sierra Leone dry. The consequences of your government’s corrupt practices are children dying, children malnourished, children going to bed hungry, families starving and living in deplorable conditions and the majority of Sierra Leoneans living in abject poverty. The UN human development index not only ranks Sierra Leone amongst the poorest countries in the world, life expectancy is below 35 years. Plus the high cost of living makes Sierra Leone hell for most of its citizens. The inflation rate is steadily rising every year and was recorded at 10% (Country Report by Economist Intelligence Unit, London July 2014)at the start of this year. For a man who was dubbed “the world’s best” when you assumed office, you have not lived up to that title and Sierra Leoneans now hold a different perception of you and your government.

Mr. President, take a moment and look into the eyes of a dying child, a hungry child or a poor mother who cannot provide for her family and allow yourself to do the right thing. Remember you were elected to serve the people. What could you possible need tens of millions of dollars for? What do you need several cars for? How many houses do you need? Do you realize how ridiculous it makes us look to the rest of the world? The average reasonable man cannot wrap his head around such gross selfishness. Frankly speaking the money is not even yours. Give it back.

Sir, Sierra Leone is not as poor as you make us look, though you and your government officials are far from poor. Personally you are worth more than most western presidents (http://www.thenewpeople.com/national-news/item/2190-ernest-koroma-now-4th-richest-president-in-africa); how come you still go begging to people you are richer than? It was reported by the World Bank that for 2013, Sierra Leone’s income was nearly $5billion, (http://data.worldbank.org/country/sierra-leone) an all-time high. What happened to all that money? It certainly did not trickle down to the masses. I am quite puzzled that considering we mine several minerals (diamond, bauxite, iron ore, rutile etc.), we fish, and we export agricultural goods, the average Sierra Leonean does not benefit from the country’s wealth. I am no economist, in fact I have zero knowledge of this subject, but I and many other Sierra Leoneans possess common sense. Sense enough to see that you are failing us.

Regarding education: Sir, about 65% of Sierra Leoneans are illiterate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_literacy_rate). Considering we have a population of six million people. That is three million nine hundred thousand citizens. Why is that? Sierra Leone had the first university in West Africa; Sierra Leone was called the ‘Athens of West Africa’. Where did it go wrong? Between 2007 to the present day, can your government boast of any major achievement in education? Take into consideration the deplorable state of the Fourah Bay College, the plight of teachers and the conditions that children are expected to learn in before you answer the question.

Let’s take a little peek at the Supplementary Appropriation Act 2014. The Supplementary Act approved by Parliament on the 10th July 2014 provides revisions to the existing 2014 budget. The supplementary budget in total was Le266billion. It allocates Le7billion to education whilst the military spending budget is nearly Le50billion (http://awoko.org/2014/07/11/sierra-leone-news-coopers-eyes-4/). This means that the military budget is more than 7 times the education budget. The military officer’s uniforms allocation (Le10billion) alone is more than the education budget. Why is that Sir? I understand how important security is but for a country not at war, this disparity is hard to understand. Is it a deliberate ploy by every government we have had in Sierra Leone to keep the people in the dark so they can get away with corruption? I also noticed that ‘Teenage Pregnancy’ in the budget is allocated Le2.2billion (http://awoko.org/2014/07/11/sierra-leone-news-coopers-eyes-4/) I don’t quite understand what ‘Teenage Pregnancy’ means in this context and why it needs Le2.2billion. Is the money going to be distributed to young mothers to help them raise the children? Is it to educate young girls on safe sex? If so, don’t you think Le2.2billion is a bit excessive? I am yet to see any billboards or programs on TV and radio addressing this issue.

Back to education; the Ebola outbreak has further strengthened the case for more spending on education. It has spread like wildfire and the main reason is because the masses cannot grasp the importance of the message that Ebola is highly infectious. How do you expect uneducated people to act responsibly when you have not shown them how to be responsible? Now we are dying. Good people are dying, young people are dying, and babies are dying mostly because of the negligence of your government. Forget conspiracy theories on how Ebola got to West Africa. Let’s concentrate on post Ebola and your government’s response to it. It took you several months to make a statement on this issue. In a publication dated 22nd July 2014, the Minister of Health is said to have told Umaru Fofanah that your government had the Ebola virus under control. Her exact words were “We are at a serious point but I will not say it is out of control” (http://politicosl.com/2014/07/interview-sierra-leone-health-minister-on-ebola/). Umaru Fofanah, being an international journalist communicated to the world what your Minister told him. Even though hundreds had died by then it was still not considered an ‘emergency’. I would think one dead Sierra Leonean is one too many. Fast forward a month later, hundreds more dead and very obvious that the government does not (or ever did) have the Ebola outbreak under control, you choose to shift blame unto the international community, even though a month earlier you were telling the world your government had the outbreak under control.

There were calls to close the border with Guinea and put health officials around every border town as a preventive measure. That did not happen and now Sierra Leone is at risk of being shut off by the world. Your government is now scrambling. An Ebola task force was only created four months after the outbreak hit Sierra Leone. Please outline exactly what measures or strategies were put in place by the Ministry of Health during the first four months of the outbreak or what preventive steps were taken even before the Ebola outbreak spread to Sierra Leone. Some days I wish someone could wave a magic wand and make Ebola go away but considering Ebola is resistant to magic we’ve got to find other ways to fight it. I’m aware that the current magnitude of this disease is now beyond the capability of Sierra Leone and we desperately need help, but trying to shift all the blame to the international community? No Sir it doesn’t work that way. Stop politicizing the situation. Accept fault and your people will appreciate you for your honesty. Take the Liberian President for example; she apologized to her nation. You have hardly made more than 3 speeches to Sierra Leoneans. Why can’t we take care of our own? Members of your government are worth in total over a billion dollars. Why couldn’t you give back some of what you’ve made from Sierra Leone? Again I stress, that money is not yours. Give it back.

Mr. President, like every man I’m sure you want to be respected. Well understand this too, Sierra Leoneans want to be respected. We are tired of being considered amongst the poorest countries or the most corrupt or the country with the highest infant mortality rate. What we all fail to realize however is that we will not be respected if we don’t take care of our own; we will not be respected if we do not stop being selfish; we will not be respected if we do not respect Sierra Leone. Respect is earned Sir. The international community owes us nothing. It is not their duty to ‘fix’ Sierra Leone. It is our duty as Sierra Leoneans to do so ourselves.

You have three more years of your presidential term remaining. I charge you Sir, start the change. We voted you in because we saw you as the best candidate to move Sierra Leone forward. We all know you can do more. You know you can do more. Think of your legacy; it’s not too late but it needs to start now. Be a ‘hard man’ if you must. Let heads roll if they must. All we ask is that you love Sierra Leone like a father would love his home and his children. Our forefathers set the foundation for greatness. Let’s stop settling for mediocrity.

PS: The author of this letter has voted once in his life, in 2007, for H E Ernest Bai Koroma.

When they had fights, they made peace to the sound of the African drum;

When they went apart, guess what came by? That thing called wahala.

Freedom is bursting out like the cork from an open champagne bottle;

Life can create a sudden feeling of oppression;

To the feeling of release in the same light;

As a river searching for the ocean.

Mama’s children had promised to make her the proudest mother of all the worlds;

She waits in anticipation and a thirst of eagerness;

For the day her dreams will come true.

The promise of a corrupt free, faithful, love and non tribalistic land is alien to these parts.

It has become a custom to encompass this hidden feature to every newborn pickin of this land.

They announced to wipe all mamas’ debt including the ones her sons spent on concubines and expensive houses, money which was meant for mama, but her sons keep playing the same games.

The constant battering of love in her eardrum has taken its toll on mama. All mama can do now is just complain and take and love every newborn that she has been given. The names that she gives her sons are not the names they are later known to the world as. Mama knows their real names but to us they are known as corruption, poverty, aids (oh! she has some many of them) civil war, tribal war (oh! these are the new sons they are quite young but they’re growing so fast now).

Then there is genocide, this is just one boy but he moves from different lands and causes mama so much pain that her pain even complains of afflictions.

To stand in the face of your affliction and smile is the best feeling one could ever wish for in their lives. But when you make your affliction get the best of you; every weak emotion will be evoked from the depth of your breast.

You will never get through life without any affliction; it’s just impossible. From the first breath you inhale, to your last gasp for air on your departure to the next life. Affliction will be with you, from the special boys Mohamed (SAW) and Jesus they had afflictions.

Africa has her afflictions, and we are the cure.

Ar dey beg mak we cam together.

May Allah, God bless Mama Africa now and forever.

Mama We love you

by Kanja Ibrahim Sesay

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/03/14/mamas-afflictions-by-kanja-i-sesay/feed/1IMG_0045thenetworkforchangeMy personal experience with Okada in Sierra Leone thus far… by Leslie Gordon-Brownehttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/my-personal-experience-with-okada-in-sierra-leone-thus-far-by-leslie-gordon-browne/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/my-personal-experience-with-okada-in-sierra-leone-thus-far-by-leslie-gordon-browne/#commentsThu, 13 Feb 2014 10:41:26 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=253Since 2005, I have been on okada rides in several countries that I have visited, so I always asked myself, ‘why not in my own motherland? My first okada ride in Sierra Leone was in March 2013, this was during my research into the mining sector in Sierra Leone for my MA thesis. I had an interview with a geology specialist at Tengbeh Town and I did not want to be late. My okada journey was from Murray Town Junction to Tengbeh Town and cost me Le10, 000 (roughly £1.50/$2.50). I did not bargain a price, I just jumped on it and said, ‘let’s go!’. It was quick and safe, so there was no reason for me to think this would be my first and last okada ride in Sierra Leone.

Since my recent trip to Sierra Leone in December 2013, 5 weeks and counting, I have used okadas more than taxis or the family car. My reasons for travelling by okada are simple; I do not know all the designated taxi stopping points so to save myself from looking stupid to the cab drivers I take an okada, which takes me direct to my destination, without intermediate stops. Where I am currently based at Murray Town, hailing a taxi near the main roundabout is sometimes very difficult, and waiting times can reach 30 minutes at times, and during that period over 20 available okadas would have driven past. At present it is very hot in Sierra Leone even though it is supposed to be the cool Harmattan season. When you are stuck in a traffic either in a cab or someone’s car without a air conditioning it is a discomforting experience.

So far there have been no limits to where I have journeyed to on an okada. I have taken okadas to church (my Aunt was not happy when she saw me getting off it), visit friends/families, meetings, interviews, bars/clubs, restaurants, etc.

The earliest time I have been on an okada was 7.30am for an 8am meeting, I was there on time. The latest time I have travelled by okada was around 4am after a good night out at the popular O Bar. For me, the best time to enjoy an okada ride is after 2am on a week day; I recently had an okada ride from Campbell Street to Lumley just after 2am on a week day, the street was clear and the ride was smooth, with a cooling breeze and scenic view, and even though some of the areas we went through were dark and a bit scary, it was fun. My longest journey on an okada has been from Wilberforce Street in downtown Freetown to Juba Hill on the outskirts of the city (less than 30 minutes ride), which was Le15, 000(roughly £2), which I believe has been my most expensive ride thus far. My cheapest journey was Le1, 000(few pence) from Old Bitter Kola Factory, Murray Town to Murray Town Junction (less than 5 minutes).

There are some risks involved when riding an okada; the majority of the okada drivers do not have a licence or a permit to be driving the bike and most of these okadas would not pass an M.O.T. test. The brakes on most okadas are not good, so the drivers often turn the front tyre to the left and right whiles pressing the brake to either slow down or stop the bike. At night the majority of these drivers are high on drugs which makes them less attentive on the roads. A lot of these drivers are very bold and take chances (50% of the time I say to the drivers ‘Dude I value your life so please value mine’ and they will reply ‘nor worry Sa we go reach dae jis nor). If you have a driver that listens to you, your ride will be quick and smooth. If you do not have a driver that listens to you, you will either have to stop the journey and get on another bike or pray that all goes well. I have had a few minor accidents thus far and there have been a few incidents where I had to take control of the bike myself. I found the most dangerous and nerve-racking areas for okada rides are Juba Hill, Kingtom Bridge and Buttom Mango, this is due to the fact that on certain bends you cannot see oncoming traffic and I have witnessed a number of horrific okada accidents in these areas.

The majority of the okada drivers I use are based either at Murray Town Junction or Kingtom Bridge. Murray Town junction is close to my house and I often walk to Kingtom Bridge after my few run-arounds in town. I now have 5 okada drivers’ numbers on my phone. I find them to be more reliable than taxi drivers; in my experience, when an okada driver says he will be at your house in 10 minutes, he is there on time, but when a cab driver tells you he will be there in 30 minutes, he means 1 hour 30 minutes. I also try to build a relationship or understanding with them. Some of them have actually been to university but were unable to find a job in their field of study so ended up driving an okada. Others have families they are responsible for, some were ex-combatants, but the majority of them are high school dropouts, whose families could not afford to continue to pay for their school fees or were expelled from school due to bad behaviour. They are like a band of brothers. They look out for each other whether it be by informing each other where police stops are located, or to tell the other driver where there is heavy traffic. They also take it in turns to ride the bikes because not every driver is allocated a bike for himself, by sharing the bikes the other get to make money too. I have also heard them discuss among themselves who should visit one of their colleagues in hospital who recently had an accident.

The more time I spend with these guys I realise that they are fully aware that the community does not value them and people look at them as one of the least in the Sierra Leonean class structure, a scourge on the streets of Freetown. However, they are also aware of their importance in modern Sierra Leonean society and that if they were to strike a lot of people would be adversely affected.

There has been discussions as to whether okadas should be taken off the streets of Freetown. There are arguments for and against. My two cents in the matter is that okada is a form of livelihood for lots of unemployed young men. If they were to stop driving, what forms of mechanism is there to help them sustain themselves? We can either embrace the okada system, discover ways it can be regulated and operated in a disciplined manner; or for the meantime start creating positive initiatives in which these okada drivers can slowly transfer to an official okada occupation. I will leave you with the words of Papa, one of my okada drivers ‘Die nah die bra, die nor pas die, we all dae go nah same dorty so nor frade yah’

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/cursed-blessing-by-huldah-v-samuels/feed/1The BlessingthenetworkforchangeAdventures of a “JC” By Leonard Gordonhttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/adventures-of-a-jc-by-leonard-gordon/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/adventures-of-a-jc-by-leonard-gordon/#commentsThu, 13 Feb 2014 09:30:46 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=243Last Christmas (December 2013), I went home after seven years. The journey was filled with mixed emotions. On the one hand I was excited about visiting the place I call home, with all its familiar sights and sounds, and seeing all the relatives and friends that I had not seen over the years. On the other, I was apprehensive about the developmental changes that had taken place over the years.

I arrived at Lungi and was impressed by the courteousness and respect of the immigration officer who stamped my passport. Things were getting off to a good start. He had not asked about his Christmas present or what I had for him, something that others had warned me to expect based on their own experiences. Getting my bags proved not to be as smooth. While there was a conveyor belt for the luggage, a big improvement from the cart that just dumped our bags the last time, there was a hoard of people looking to get bags. Some of these people had not even been on the flight yet they had passports and ticket tags in hand. This was very troubling as ours was the only flight that had arrived at that time. This caused a lot of chaos, especially given that some passengers had been travelling for over 16-20 hours and were irritated and eager to get home. Why was getting your bags from baggage claim with only one flight more complicated than getting your bags at other airports where planes land simultaneously and there are a lot more passengers?

After much ado, we made it from Lungi to mainland Freetown to be greeted by the darkness with spots of light here and there. Electricity in Freetown is a luxury that one cannot count on. I must hasten here to say that while it is not ideal it is a lot better than the last time I was there. Seven years ago, we had light three times in a 4 or so week period including once when the light came for only 10 minutes. This time around it was more frequent. For the most part we had light in the evenings around 7pm and it usually went out sometime in the morning. The frequency of light in Freetown is very area specific. I have a friend who lives at Old Railway Line and they had light almost 24 hours every day. But if you live in Freetown you know what important building is at Old Railway Line which serves as a catalyst for this constant flow of electricity.

Another issue was water supply. Previously, I had stayed at Congo Cross which used to enjoy constant water supply. The taps were only closed at Congo Cross when there was a national cleaning of the Guma Dam which supplies water to Freetown and its environs. This time around that luxury was no more. Even the likes of Congo Cross suffer from periods of no water supply. This time around I was staying at Spur Loop and the whole time I was there, about two and a half weeks, there was no water supply. Every day we went into town we had to take 5 gallon containers so that we could bring water for use the next day.

After over 50 years of independence, we still cannot provide a constant source of water and electricity for the population of the capital city let alone the whole country? For me everything else was secondary. Light and water was not too much to ask for. You cannot take a long shower because you feel guilty. In my opinion, this lack of water encourages unhealthy practices because the thought of the pains involved in fetching water limits the ease with which it is used. Toilets sit for hours without being flushed, because flushing after every use would be too much, causing a stench that permeates the air. Dishes sit for hours because you want to collect all and wash once and for all thereby attracting rodents and insects which are a vector for diseases.

However, it is not all gloom. There is money in Freetown even though one does not seem to know where it is coming from or where it goes. There used to be a small stretch of land called Forest reserve that divided the end of Hill Station and the beginning of Regent Village. That stretch of land is no more, and in its place are numerous houses under construction. Most of these houses are huge borderline mansions, even when compared to Western standards, that are just scattered willy nilly over the hillside. It seems that people are just building where they see fit without any planning or thought and there are no consequences for such irresponsible behavior. In some cases there are no roads which lead to these structures which makes you wonder how the materials and supplies that were used arrived at their destination. This construction dilemma is not peculiar to Hill Station. There are buildings popping up all over the place like wild flowers in a field of grass. This is one of the reasons for the lack of water supply in Freetown. Since people are just building without any planning they lack water supply and revert to various means of obtaining it. At the top of most streets exposed running water pipes can be seen as people have cut said pipes to get water.

Another thing that Freetown has in abundance is vehicles; so much so that they are a nuisance. The city has more vehicles than its old colonial roads can handle which is one of the major causes of traffic that is so rampant now in Freetown. It took 45 minutes to travel from Cotton tree to PWD at the junction of Campbell Street, a distance of barely a mile. There are all kinds of makes and models of cars in the city from range rovers and hummers to Toyotas and Nissans. Another sign of the availability of money. I have never seen so many Range Rovers in my life. I even heard there was a limousine but I never saw it with my own eyes. Why someone would need a limousine in Freetown baffles me given that the largest roads we have are two lanes in one direction.

A word of advice to those going to Freetown, pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes and prepare to “Abu Black” your way around the city. At regular intervals you can stop and refresh yourself with jelly from the road side traders. Actually, the water is not that bad either. I drank water from the tap the whole time I was there and nothing happened to me.

There does not seem to be any law and order in the city. People do what they want with no consequences. The week before I left it was announced that the government was going to clear Sani Abacha Street (former Kissy Street) the following Monday. Before the weekend, the traders marched the streets of Central Freetown in protest and when Monday came nothing happened. If change is going to happen the government needs to have the backbone to carry through with decisions and make sure the consequences are upheld. The last time I was in Freetown okadas had been banned as a result of a nasty accident in which a police woman lost her life along Wilkinson Road. This time around they were back with a vengeance even though there are still daily reports of accidents. They are all over the place and seem to be the fastest way to get around given the traffic in the city. Rules might be upheld for a week or two but a consistent follow-up is missing.

Disturbingly, the whole time I was thinking “there go I but for the grace of God“. I could have been any one of the masses who are struggling to make ends meet. There is even a struggle among those who are supposedly well off. The masses are suffering and you see that as you walk the streets of Freetown. Not everyone has the means to leave even though they might want to. But Sierra Leoneans have a sense of humor that helps them survive tough times. We are a very resilient people. This was the country that survived for nine months without a single bank open in the country.

I have learnt that humans want a comfortable life and would do desperate things to achieve it. It is desperation and the promise of a better life that makes Mexicans cross the desert into the US. The same desperation and promise makes African immigrants attempt to swim the nine mile journey on the Strait of Gibraltar from northern Africa to southern Europe. Humans have and will always do what is necessary to achieve said comfort. In my conversations with young people while there, most of them want to leave. They look at you like you are crazy when you tell them you are thinking of returning. Opportunities are almost non-existent and the situation looks dire.

It is a big luxury to go to Freetown and know that you can leave. You are mad, frustrated and sometimes downright disgusted but on such and such a date you are leaving. Like the mastercard commercials, that is priceless. Sad to say this is the case of many from the diaspora, they have a Western passport/visa and can bounce if it does not work out. They sometimes go in with good intentions but if it does not work out they have that luxury – a way out – which your average Sierra Leonean does not have. Maybe it is time we give those living in Sierra Leone the opportunity to rule themselves. In the US, there is a minimum residency requirement to hold certain public offices. In Sierra Leone that is not the case. People go home to become state ministers and parliamentarians after long stints of absence from the country and people that they are supposed to govern. In Sierra Leone civil servants are more like masters than servants, they do not seem to have the interest of the people at heart just that of their pockets.

Sadly there are quite a few people who are in government who are from the so called diaspora. Maybe they are consumed by greed, but I am a bit at a loss as to the contributions from the diaspora to the development of Sierra Leone at this point. The diasporans are slowly becoming like World Bank expatriates who jet in tell us what to do and then leave. They have high paying jobs and work with people who are paid peanuts. It’s like David Beckham with LA Galaxy – his salary was almost that of the rest of the entire team combined.

As a people we are so used to dire situations that even when we are given what is due us we feel as if we have been given the world. We get excited when the roads are made. That is why we pay taxes and it is the duty of the government. We get excited when we have light three times a week. We pay bills to NPA and electricity is necessary for a comfortable life.

Socially, it was a nice trip. My highlights of the trip were a visit to Banana Island and the few sunsets on the beach that I was able to catch. Those sunsets on the beach were priceless. That in itself is a resource that I will pay for. Maybe it is high time we milk all of our resources for what they are worth. Sierra Leoneans know how to enjoy and I think that goes a long way in helping us survive the hardships we have been dealt by those that seem to govern us.

With all that been said, I will address the million dollar “what have you done for your country?” question. Lord knows I try to do what I can. It might not be enough but I try and this is not the forum to go into what I do and don’t do. This I can say, we are all looking for comfort. At this point in my life it will be hard for me to go to a place where I cannot even get light and water not to mention health services, education and other basic amenities. That is not too much to ask. At this stage the little individual contributions are almost non-significant to national development. What we need is national level change brought about by a government that makes sure the citizens abide by the rules and regulations of the country. I love Sierra Leone and always will. It has a special place in my heart but I am only willing within reason to make certain sacrifices for that love. I would very much love to relocate back to Sierra Leone but can’t find an answer to the question: When am I going to?

By Leonard Gordon

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2014/02/13/adventures-of-a-jc-by-leonard-gordon/feed/3Adventures of a JCthenetworkforchange“EXPERIENCES OF A DIASPORA RETURNEE” by Yeniva Sisay-Sogbehhttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/16/experiences-of-a-diaspora-returnee-by-yeniva-sisay-sogbeh/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/16/experiences-of-a-diaspora-returnee-by-yeniva-sisay-sogbeh/#commentsMon, 16 Dec 2013 15:36:43 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=238While growing up in the US, parents always talked about moving back “home” to Sierra Leone. With this in mind, each time I visited Sierra Leone, I was carefully connecting the dots my existence and discovering who I am. It is the one place in the world where I felt connected and had a strong sense of belonging to. And at the end of each visit, I returned to the US feeling incomplete – more like little pieces of me were missing. I realized that being in Sierra Leone felt like home. It was then that the burning desire to return to Sierra Leone was planted in my heart.

On one of our visits during the Christmas holidays, I remember bringing up the subject whilst with my mother and grandfather. I announced “Mom I think it would be a great idea for me to move to Sierra Leone and go to school. You have always talked about moving home and I could live here with Grandma and Grandpa and go to school with my cousins. It would be so much fun!” My Mom looked at me with a puzzled look on her face and then gave me the side eye. “You are too young” she said. My Grandfather looked up from reading his newspaper and said “Yes Yeniva I am sure it would be very fun and I am sure you would have just as much fun getting into a reputable university as well. The value of education is not just about fun. You can’t compare the education in America to that in Africa. As a woman you have to fight twice as hard, here you won’t even have a head start.” His statement took me by surprise and it lingered in my head long after he made his declaration.

I first went back to Sierra Leone again in 2002 right after the war. I couldn’t fathom what had become of the beautiful country that I loved so much. I had so many unanswered questions; Why? What as the reason behind the war? and most importantly, how could we make sure it never happened again. I knew I had to do something anything to make a difference. So I started collecting things to send, clothes, toiletries, school supplies, books anything that could help. I began by setting up my own NGO and joined different Sierra Leonean organizations – all to try and contribute to the rebuilding process and make a difference. I made a trip to Sierra Leone at least once every year and while things were changing, many things stayed the same and while these were valuable experiences, I still did not feel like my efforts were making the necessary impact. This was extremely frustrating.

This was around the time of the emergence of blogs – a time where humanitarian workers from all around the world were in Sierra Leone working in different agencies. I would read about people’s experiences, perspectives, and perceptions of Sierra Leone. While I was excited to read about their tales of growth and potential, I knew it was just that; their stories. It was very important that Sierra Leoneans tell their own stories as well and that we shape the future of our nation by ourselves.

In 2007 I finally decided to move back to Sierra Leone. I felt like it was important to stop talking about change but it was time to actually be a part of it. With my passion for education, I saw the similarities between young people in my classrooms in America and the youth I worked with in Sierra Leone.

One of the many things I learned throughout my educational path is that education gives options and the power to make choices. The ultimate benefit of education to me is the ability to share thoughts with others, challenge and develop ideas, and blend them into contributions and solutions that can transform. These realizations lead me to my calling of being an educator. I am an educator because it is my passion to assist others in their journey of uncovering the power of education. With that motif, I began teaching at underperforming schools in the American school system where each day, I battled to capture student’s attention as issues of poverty and gang violence surrounded their home life. Also, very few expected them to complete high school and if they made it to college, they would be the first ones in their family to do so. I was pleased to have been able to help them overcome these challenges and enter some of the top universities and colleges around the country.

With that experience, I returned with the belief that the future of Sierra Leone lies in the hands of the youth who are our future leaders. It was not long before I thought constantly about what it would take to get our “at risk” youth in Sierra Leone into colleges and universities of their choice not only in Sierra Leone but around the world. I moved home to embark on a mission to change the way education is presented in Sierra Leone. This gave birth to the EXCEL Education Program. With dedication, perseverance and endurance The EXCEL Team has worked diligently to turn “Vision into Action”.

On July 21, 2008, the EXCEL Education Center opened its doors at 9 Dillet Street to our inaugural class. The program served students throughout secondary school preparing them to enter institutions of higher education and or gainful employment or business. Its successes include; Delivering the first ever “Money Maters for Kids Workshop” with United Bank For Africa, UBA; and being Selected as the recruitment representative in Sierra Leone for the “African Leadership Academy” in South Africa. Through the programme, seven students from Sierra Leone have successfully graduated from the academy, providing enrichment and WASSCE support resulting in five of our participant’s receiving the top scores in the country and district ( 1st and 2nd places in 2008- 2009), and the “EXCEL Scholars Internship” Program where students were given on- the-job training and employment opportunities, etc. Our biggest success by far is that 31 EXCEL Scholars have gone on to enter four year colleges and universities in Sierra Leone; IPAM Fourah Bay College, College of Medicine, United States, England, Russia, Ukraine including-, University of Rochester, Colby College, Morehouse College and The United World College, Singapore. In 2013 we celebrated our first EXCEL Scholar’s graduation from IPAM.

While these achievements mean that more students have access to greater educational and life opportunities, I realize that even these efforts are not sufficient enough to fully address the critical needs left by gaps in the Sierra Leonean educational system.

My quest for success was not met without trials. In the beginning it was difficult to get cooperation from the Ministry of Education. A supplementary education program for secondary school students did not belong to any specific category; it didn’t tick any of the boxes outlined by donor partners. “We need more technical training institutes” I would hear from officials. But I pushed on. Even when I applied for funding, most NGO’s focused on education were interested in funding primary education or building rural schools. I went from office to office, meeting to meeting with no luck. It was a harsh reality to find out I could not get funding for the programme. My daydreams about the creation of the program were nothing like this. There were many days I was so frustrated! Fortunately for me, I reached out to my friends and family for support. Their constant encouragement was a source of inspiration for me.

Today one of Sierra Leone’s biggest challenges is youth unemployment. Unemployment amongst urban youth is extremely high. The employment challenges of youth in Sierra Leone are closely linked to the effects of the 11-year civil war. More than half of the youth population – who constitute approximately 80 per cent of the total population – are illiterate. Finding jobs in the formal economy is difficult. Access to jobs for young women has been especially challenging. While there has been a keen focus on job creation for youth, we need to be thinking well past the short term solutions and engage in long term planning. In order to compete at a global standard and meet the demands of a growing and developing Sierra Leone, we need to nurture a culture of high achievement and quality education.

Once the deemed the “Athens of Africa”, education in Sierra Leone is simply not the same. The influx in the demand of education has caused overpopulation of schools, overcrowded classrooms, high student- teacher ratio, and an overwhelming amount of outdated, untrained, unskilled and unqualified teachers. Education in Sierra Leone has declined to a point where even some of the students ranking at the top of their classes pale in comparison to their peers in other African countries not to mention peers all over the world.

Many educated young people do not see the worth of staying in Sierra Leone. Their hope is to find solace in another country, most popularly being America or Europe, resulting in significant brain drain. Many of these young people end up in poorly ranked universities or low income jobs because their education in Sierra Leone was not well rounded enough.

Brain drain in Africa has financial, institutional, and societal costs. African countries get little return from their investment in higher education, since too many graduates leave or fail to return home at the end of their studies.

While I can say that some schools are working tirelessly to meet the demands of students and parents, they cannot do it alone. Education should be our countries most coveted asset. There is a dire need for modern and innovative programming that addresses Sierra Leones educational inequities, while promoting high academic achievement.

With the necessary skills and experience in short supply in Sierra Leone especially for key positions, companies and organizations look to neighbouring countries such as Gambia, Ghana, and Nigeria to fill these labour gaps. Although the percentage of expatriates working within industries is minimal, they occupy most of the skilled positions.

Consider for instance that over 20 per cent of Africa’s population is aged between 15 and 24 years, and over 40 per cent is under 15 years of age. This means that the challenge to develop and retain emerging leaders with the potential to meet the demands of a globalized environment is set to escalate even further.

High-quality education in Sierra Leone is the foundation for success and growth. There is a need for empowered teachers, strong school leaders, better curricula, and the ability for students to connect with one another and the rest of the world.

I therefore set out to contribute in my own little way together with the help of many other fine people whose tireless contribution brought about the successes outlined above. The programme had been shut down and we are planning to re-launch it in the spring of 2014. EXCEL is dedicated to promoting academic excellence by providing evidence-based test, preparatory tutorials, skills training, academic development, activities, and support services. It is our goal to develop a culture of academic excellence and empowering the next generation of leaders, creative minds, innovators, thinkers, and change-makers who are not only inspired but compelled to re-define Sierra Leone, and the rest of the world. We shall remain committed to doing just that.

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/16/experiences-of-a-diaspora-returnee-by-yeniva-sisay-sogbeh/feed/5yenivathenetworkforchangeReflections of my mining internship in Sierra Leone – The good, the bad, and the frustrations By Ruby B. Johnsonhttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/reflections-of-my-mining-internship-in-sierra-leone-the-good-the-bad-and-the-frustrations-by-ruby-b-johnson/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/reflections-of-my-mining-internship-in-sierra-leone-the-good-the-bad-and-the-frustrations-by-ruby-b-johnson/#respondThu, 12 Dec 2013 08:18:36 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=233In summer 2013, I spent two months doing an internship at Koidu Limited – Part of Octea Mining in Tankoro Chiefdom, Koidu Town, and Kono District. I am currently a student at Virginia Tech with a major in Mining and Minerals Engineering and a Minor in Women’s and Gender Studies. Sierra Leone is a big reason why I chose the path of mining engineering in my future, and ideally I would love to work in that industry in Sierra Leone in years to come. Besides being a college student, I am also the reigning Miss Sierra Leone USA (2012-2014) under the Miss Sierra Leone in DC organization and my personal platform is advocating for the recruitment and retention of girls and women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.

During my official Homecoming visit to Sierra Leone this past April, I had the opportunity to visit Koidu Limited in Koidu Town, Kono district since I was a mining engineering student and this company has also been a sponsor of the Miss Sierra Leone USA pageant in the past years. I enjoyed the tour I was given, and expressed my interest in doing a summer internship. After my return to the United States, I applied for the summer internship position with Koidu Limited and was offered the position. I was very excited about this opportunity because I saw it as a great way for me to gain experience in my future career, learn about the Sierra Leone mining industry, and also actively promote my platform of STEM and journal my experience there through my blog. Before heading back to Sierra Leone for the internship, I was given a lot of advice on what to and what not to do, as well as the good and bad. However, I do believe one can never be prepared enough or understand situations unless it becomes their lived experience.

Although I am citizen of the United States, I have always identified myself as a Sierra Leonean in the United States. Living in the US for the past 10 years, I have maintained my morals and values as a Sierra Leonean, and take pride in being an African woman. However, I found it interesting that when I was in Sierra Leone, I realized how I was very Americanized and a part of me felt that I am more Sierra Leonean when in the US and not so similar to those living in Sierra Leone. Whenever I was surrounded by the locals, I looked around and saw no difference between us, but they felt otherwise. I recall a co-worker of mine telling me that he always forgets that I am a born-Sierra Leonean and just sees me as an American. Initially, I was bothered by comments such as that, but as time went by I began to embrace my multiple identities.

I have worked in the US as a mining intern before going to Sierra Leone, so I am knowledgeable that the mining industry lacks presence of women doing physical work. So to be a shocking factor to the individuals I worked with in Koidu was not unfamiliar to me. I recall working in the quarry; there were several moments whereby the men took double takes at me with surprise that a woman was down there working with them. Some of the Sierra Leonean men told me how proud they were of me, that their fellow Sierra Leonean was in a position such as mine and that was something rare to see in a sector that high-ranking positions were dominated by expatriates of non-Sierra Leonean origin. Whenever they made comments about how much they loved seeing me (a woman and Sierra Leonean) working and doing hands-on work with them, my usual response was “good, now go tell your sisters and daughters that they should get into mining as well; we need more women in the mining sector.”

Being that I am Miss Sierra Leone USA, I had opportunities to visit communities in Koidu Town and interact with the people, as well as participating in radio interviews. During these interviews, most of the comments were very positive and uplifting, and I was very grateful to know the people saw me as a great role model for the girls, women, and youth of the town. However, one of the moments that shook me up a bit was during my interview on Eastern Radio’s The Bundle; a caller wanted me to address some issues: the low wages of the local workers at Octea, and the effects of blasting on the town. The mining industry is one that is often victimized by negative criticism and I am very familiar with that in the United States, with individuals stating that it does more harm than good to workers and society. For my two years in mining so far, half of the time I receive praises on how great it is that I am in the industry, and half of the time I am put in situations whereby I have to defend the industry and what we do. So I was not shocked to hear the comments by the caller; however, the aggressive tone of the caller and repeatedly calling the station for the questions to be answered made me feel very uncomfortable. In no way was I trying to avoid those questions, but I had a long list of questions that needed to be answered before those. In the end, I did respond to him but also let him know that as an intern I do not have any control over some of these situations. After my responses, I could tell the caller was not satisfied with my blunt answers and thought I would say something different, but I spoke with utmost conviction as Ruby and not as an Octea robot. A moment like this made me realize that spreading knowledge and having transparency of the mining industry in the community is very important in Koidu town, and in Sierra Leone as a whole. Because people are misled by those that have minimal knowledge on certain issues, and I know I used to be part of that group before becoming enlightened.

During the duration of my internship, something that bothered me a lot was how much some people could only do something for another if they knew they were going to be rewarded. Living in the US and learning the value of giving a tip is something my mother instilled in me from a young age, so I have no qualms with giving someone money in return for gratitude. However, I hated that some people demanded it, and they would only assist you if they knew you were going to get money in return. I am a firm believer in personal responsibility, and that one should work for everything they earn. Some may have thought of it as being greedy, but I saw it as a matter of principles. The idea I had of Sierra Leoneans back home before coming to the United States is that we are very helpful and hospitable people, so after returning ten years later I was very shocked at how different it is. I found situations such as these to be very frustrating. Instances such as this, I was left thinking what may have caused these changes over the past ten years or I had created a fantasy of what Sierra Leoneans are.

I know Sierra Leone has a culture of respect but I found it very weird the ways that people referred to me, such as mommy, sissy, aunty, di mami, etc. Most of the time, I was given these titles when someone wanted money from me. As time went by, I was able to read when being given titles such as this was a compliment or when it was a language for monetary feedback. Something else that came to my observation was that it was very important to be tough in dealing with certain individuals or situations. I subconsciously made this attitudinal change and after returning to the United States, my mother told me that she noticed that I am more aggressive in the way I act and speak. I guess I had to gain a backbone while I was in Sierra Leone, because I realized being tough is necessary in order to make a point.

In conclusion, I am aware that Sierra Leone cannot be what it used to be ten years ago, but with optimism I know that it will not be the same way ten years from now. Some may reference the former civil war as a reason for the attitudinal change in the citizens; however, I choose to put less emphasis on it because I also know that Sierra Leoneans are individuals that rise after unfortunate events and experiences. My wish as a Sierra Leonean woman that proudly represents the green, white, and blue flag wherever I go is to: have a nation that is full of individuals that willingly help and do not seek benefits; have a nation that rewards those that work hard; have a nation that makes it a priority to take control of its natural resources; have a nation that promotes equal education for its boys and girls; have a nation that has respect for all Sierra Leoneans regardless of their level of education; have a nation that is not cynical about the good intentions of individuals that want to make a positive difference; have a nation that makes effort to enlighten communities about the need for its mining industry; and a nation that welcomes rather than discourages its diaspora and listen to how they can contribute to the development of the nation.

By Ruby B. Johnson

]]>https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/12/12/reflections-of-my-mining-internship-in-sierra-leone-the-good-the-bad-and-the-frustrations-by-ruby-b-johnson/feed/0IMG-20130729-00934thenetworkforchangeSierra Leone: My Spontaneous Getaway, By Afiya Frankhttps://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/11/28/sierra-leone-my-spontaneous-getaway-by-afiya-frank/
https://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/2013/11/28/sierra-leone-my-spontaneous-getaway-by-afiya-frank/#respondThu, 28 Nov 2013 11:52:18 +0000http://thenetworkforchange.wordpress.com/?p=225Sierra Leone “isn’t that a dangerous country, haven’t they recently been at war?” The same questioned I am asked when I tell anyone of my Christmas vacation last year. I had the pleasure of visiting this interesting and historic country in December 2012. It may have had its troubles in the past but it has moved onwards and upwards- I had the pleasure of travelling with a Sierra Leonean friend who was going for the festive season to experience the local city life. Stepping off the plane in Sierra Leone there is the normal rush of heated air to greet you. You unload into a simple airport and make your way through customs. Bag collection and organising transportation into the city is hectic and I would advise to look into it before you arrive or have someone who has done it many times before with you like I did.

There are four options to get across the river into the city –driving (I was told it would take several hours), helicopter (expensive), ferry and hover craft. Our flight was delayed by 5 hours so we arrived at 3am instead of the 10pm scheduled time so the only option we had was the hover craft – 30 minute drive from the airport to where it was docked and 30 minute ride on the hover craft into the city. We stayed in a large family home opposite Lumley market, colours, culture, characters, and buzz from sun up to sun down. Freetown is a lively city – the people are welcoming and are eager to include. Sierra Leone is a country that hasn’t become overly westernised- you can still find local, freshly made dishes in nearly every restaurant, you can meet and talk to local Sierra Leoneans in all the hotel lobbies and beach bars and don’t be surprised if you’re invited to local charity events as a guest of honour!

Sierra Leone is a great place for beaches and sun worshipers. The beaches are beautiful; each unique in its own right – my favourite being the beach called Number 2. We visited it both during the day and at night; it will be a place that I will always remember.

From what I saw money is being invested back into the country and it is developing. I feel there is a lot of potential for business growth as the country is becoming stable, the next generation of Sierra Leoneans have a lot to look forward too as I think it will be a popular travel destination for many people.